MADEIRA TOUR- SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES

This review explores the Santana East Tour, a popular full-day experience designed to showcase Madeira’s most iconic sights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded way to see the island’s northeast. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a mix of natural beauty, culture, and a bit of fun sampling local spirits.

Two things we really like about this tour are its focus on authentic Madeira, especially the famous straw-thatched houses in Santana, and the opportunity for breathtaking panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro and other scenic stops. However, a small consideration is that the timing can be tight, with some reviews mentioning last-minute notifications about pickup times. This could be worth noting if you prefer a more relaxed schedule.

This tour is best suited for those who want to combine cultural sights with stunning scenery, and who enjoy a full day of exploring comfortably in a group. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find value here—especially if you’re eager to get a comprehensive taste of Madeira’s eastern landscapes and traditions.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit the iconic traditional Santana houses, which are a must-see for anyone wanting an authentic glimpse of Madeira’s architectural style.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Pico do Areeiro and Ribeiro Frio make this tour visually memorable.
• Natural Beauty: The finale at Ponta de São Lourenço offers stark, impressive landscapes—perfect for photo enthusiasts.
• Local Flavors: A stop at Porto da Cruz Rum Factory provides a chance to taste local spirits, adding a sensory layer to your experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: The tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.
• Flexible Booking: With options for free cancellation and pay later, you can plan without the stress of upfront commitments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins in Funchal, the island’s lively capital. Pickup arrangements are included for many hotels, mainly in Funchal and Caniço, but outside areas like Câmara de Lobos, Santa Cruz, Machico, Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava, and Calheta may incur additional fees. Travelers should be ready for a quick walk or a short ride to the pickup point, with some variability in timing due to traffic or road conditions.

Pico do Areeiro: The First Scenic Stop

Your first major stop is Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks. Here, you’ll get a chance to snap photos of sweeping landscape views—think rugged mountains and rolling hills. The guide will offer insights into the area’s geography, making this a photographer’s paradise and a fantastic start to the day. Reviewers mention the “scenic views on the way,” which truly set the tone for the rest of the tour.

Faial: A Scenic Village

Next, the tour visits Faial, a quaint village offering more spectacular views and a chance for a guided tour. The stop is brief but meaningful, giving travelers a taste of rural Madeira life while enjoying more breathtaking vistas. The guided aspect ensures you learn about local customs and the landscape you see.

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Santana: The Heart of the Tour

The highlight for many is a visit to Santana, famed for its “A-frames” straw-thatched houses. The tour grants about 1.5 hours of free time here, enough to wander, take photos, and soak in the charming atmosphere. You’ll love the way these traditional homes are set against lush greenery—an image that’s become synonymous with Madeira.

Travelers have shared that “the scenery is stunning,” and that the houses give a real sense of local heritage. Some, like Nadine, appreciated the experience but noted that the last-minute notification about pickup times could be smoother; a minor inconvenience in an otherwise charming stop.

Ribeiro Frio: Nature and Breathtaking Views

The journey continues to Ribeiro Frio, a spot renowned for its cool climate and lush surroundings. The tour offers a chance to soak in views of Madeira’s famed Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you’re up for it, you might enjoy a short walk here—some reviews mention the “possibility of a walk in the forest,” which adds an active element to the day.

Porto da Cruz Rum Factory

Next, the tour visits the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory, where you can taste local spirits. This stop is a delightful break, especially if you enjoy sampling regional flavors. The degustation provides insight into Madeira’s rum-making traditions, which have been part of local culture for generations.

Ponta de São Lourenço: The Dramatic Finale

The last stop is Ponta de São Lourenço, a stark, windswept peninsula with dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain. The panoramic viewpoint at Miradouro do Rosto offers some of the most striking scenery on the island. This landscape, with its unique colors and textures, is perfect for photography and reflection before heading back to Funchal.

Practicalities and Value

This tour lasts around 7.5 hours, making it a full day, but not overwhelming. The included transportation and expert guide help ensure a smooth experience—especially helpful given the varied stops and distances involved.

While the price may seem modest, the value is rooted in the diversity of experiences: scenery, culture, local flavors, and convenience. The stops are well-chosen for their visual appeal and cultural significance, making this a well-rounded introduction to Madeira’s east.

Transportation and Group Size

Comfortable, air-conditioned buses keep you relaxed as you travel between different viewpoints and villages. Group sizes tend to be moderate, fostering an intimate atmosphere but still lively enough for social interactions. The guides are multilingual, offering insights in Portuguese, English, German, French, and Spanish—an asset if you’re traveling with a diverse group.

Food and Extras

Meals and beverages are not included, so you might want to bring some cash for snacks or drinks—especially at the rum factory or during free time in Santana. The tour offers the flexibility to explore a bit on your own during the free 1.5 hours in Santana.

Booking and Cancellation

With the option to reserve now and pay later, travelers can secure their spot without immediate financial commitment. The tour also allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Reviews highlight the stunning scenery as a major draw, with one traveler noting, “We were blown away by the scenery, the places are stunning.” The guide’s knowledge often earns praise, making the experience educational as well as visual.

A minor point of frustration mentioned in reviews is the late notification about pickup times, which could catch some travelers off guard. Still, most agree that the tour’s content and scenery more than compensate for logistical quirks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east, combining cultural sights with spectacular natural vistas. It’s suitable for those who enjoy easy-paced sightseeing, with some walking and photo opportunities, but nothing too strenuous.

Families with children, couples, and solo explorers will find value—especially if they’re eager to see traditional architecture and photograph dramatic landscapes. Food and drink lovers will appreciate the rum factory stop, adding a flavorful local touch.

The Sum Up

The Madeira Santana East Tour offers a well-balanced slice of the island’s heritage and natural beauty. From the iconic straw-thatched houses of Santana to the sweeping views from Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço, you’ll get a vivid snapshot of what makes Madeira special. The inclusion of a rum tasting adds a fun, local flavor that rounds out the experience.

While the schedule can feel a bit tight, the comfort of transportation and the expertise of guides help make this a manageable and rewarding day. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

If you’re after a tour that combines picturesque scenery, cultural authenticity, and a taste of Madeira’s spirits, this trip delivers on all fronts. For anyone seeking an enriching, picturesque, and friendly introduction to Madeira’s northeast, the Santana East Tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable transportation is included throughout the tour, with pickup from designated locations.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a jacket, casual clothes, and some cash for optional purchases or snacks during free time.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during free time.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially those interested in scenic views and cultural sites.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, German, French, and Spanish, accommodating diverse groups.

This tour offers an engaging way to experience Madeira’s east side, blending natural beauty, cultural charm, and local flavors—an experience worth considering for your Madeira itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: